Normal wear and tear
Short answer
Normal wear and tear means ordinary decline from living in a rental in a reasonable way. Faded paint, minor scuffs, and light carpet wear may fit this idea. The exact rule depends on state law and the facts, so a demand letter should describe the condition plainly and avoid overclaiming.
What it means
Normal wear and tear matters because landlords often deduct for cleaning, repairs, or replacement. A tenant should separate ordinary use from damage caused by neglect, misuse, or an accident. Photos, move-in notes, move-out photos, and messages help show the difference. The letter should not argue every mark in dramatic terms. It should say what was present, what changed, and why the deduction does not match the records. A calm comparison works better than broad claims. Describe the condition at move-in, the condition at move-out, and any repair charge that seems disconnected from ordinary living. If a detail is uncertain, say what the record shows.
When it is not this
- It is not a shield for damage caused by misuse or neglect.
- It is not a rule that makes every cleaning charge invalid.
- It is not proved by opinion alone when photos or records exist.